Many older people across the UK are not claiming government support that could add hundreds or even thousands of pounds a year to their household income, new research shows.
A recent report from retirement specialists Just Group reveals that up to three-quarters of pensioner homeowners who are eligible for state support are not claiming it, leaving an average of £1,339 a year unclaimed per person. (The Standard)
What Benefits Are Missing Out On
The analysis highlights several key benefits that many pensioners qualify for but do not claim:
✔ Pension Credit
- Guaranteed Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit that tops up weekly income for people who have reached State Pension age and have a low income. (GOV.UK)
- It can also act as a gateway to extra support such as Winter Fuel Payments, help with heating costs, and eligibility for other benefits. (Wikipedia)
- Despite this, more than two-thirds of eligible pensioners aren’t claiming it, largely due to lack of awareness.
✔ Council Tax Reductions
- Local councils provide reductions to council tax for those on low incomes, including many pensioners.
- Yet fewer than one in four pensioners eligible for council tax reduction actually claim this support, even though the average award is worth over £1,000 per year.
✔ Universal Credit and Other Support
- Some older households also miss out on components of Universal Credit and additional means-tested help that could bolster their finances. (inkl)
Why So Many Are Missing Out
Experts say the main causes of low take-up include:
- Lack of awareness of what benefits exist or who qualifies.
- Confusion about eligibility rules, particularly for people who are still working or who own their own homes.
- A belief among some pensioners that they won’t qualify — even when they do.
In fact, the Just Group report found that 62 per cent of eligible pensioners were missing out on at least one benefit, and around 14 per cent of those who did claim were actually being underpaid, losing out on an additional average of £1,162 per year.
Why It Matters in Today’s Cost-of-Living Climate
With everyday costs continuing to rise, this unclaimed income could make a significant difference to many older households — especially those reliant on fixed pensions and savings.
A simple check to see what benefits someone might be entitled to could take just a few minutes but unlock hundreds to thousands of pounds in support. (inkl)
How Pensioners Can Check What They’re Entitled To
Pensioners — or family members helping them — should consider:
- Visiting GOV.UK to check eligibility for Pension Credit and other benefits. (GOV.UK)
- Contacting Citizens Advice or speaking with their local Council’s benefits office for help with applications.
- Applying for Council Tax Reduction through their local council’s website (for Wokingham residents, see the Wokingham Borough Council Council Tax Reduction guidance). (Wokingham Borough Council)
Even if someone thinks they won’t qualify, it’s worth checking — because so many older residents are currently missing out on money that could help make life more affordable.
